1981 Ford Escort vs. 1961 MG MGA
To start off, 1981 Ford Escort is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 MG MGA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 MG MGA would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 MG MGA (71 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 MG MGA should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Escort weights approximately 54 kg more than 1961 MG MGA.
Because 1961 MG MGA is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 MG MGA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Ford Escort (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 MG MGA. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 MG MGA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1961 MG MGA | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Escort | MGA |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2390 mm |
